Temporarily using 20 pin PSU on a 24 pin motherboard?

3003003

Reputable
Mar 31, 2015
102
0
4,710
So I have almost all of the parts to build my HTPC, but the PSU isn't delivered yet. However, I have another PSU that would work; but it has a 20 pin connector. I have heard that the extra four pins power the PCI/PCI-E ports, which are not in use. Could I safely use the 20 pin PSU for the next few days until my actual PSU arrives?

Thanks!
 
Solution
The four 'missing' pins supply additional lines for the three main voltages and a ground. Without them, the system can function, but the pins can only handle so much draw before they start getting excessively hot and burning. Those extra pins spread out the load.

While it can work, it is NOT RECOMMENDED. If a line overloads it will damage the connector, the motherboard, or both. (It will also damage the PSU, too.)

3003003

Reputable
Mar 31, 2015
102
0
4,710
Also, it may be obvious that such an outdated PSU would have a low wattage level, but it is actually somewhat decent (350 watts). The parts have a low power usage, anyways.
 


Doesn't matter if it is low power. You don't really want to put that 20 pin in.
 
Hi

For a short period for testing I would be prepared to try it
I have old 400watt 20 pin psu and a 20 to 24 pin adapter

But if you read the info about howto insert the 20 pin plug into 24 pin socket you should be ok
As long as only low power gpu not requiring any psu PCI-e power cables
And not running burn in tests or over clocking etc

http://www.playtool.com/pages/psuconnectors/connectors.html
At bottom of a long page

Regards
Mike Barnes
 

Saberus

Distinguished
The four 'missing' pins supply additional lines for the three main voltages and a ground. Without them, the system can function, but the pins can only handle so much draw before they start getting excessively hot and burning. Those extra pins spread out the load.

While it can work, it is NOT RECOMMENDED. If a line overloads it will damage the connector, the motherboard, or both. (It will also damage the PSU, too.)
 
Solution